ASHEBORO, N.C. — The North Carolina Zoo is grieving the loss of Leia, a 15-year-old giraffe, who has been a beloved part of the Zoo family since 2010. Grief counselors have been on site to support staff members during the grieving process. Leia’s death is especially raw as she passed away on Tuesday, only a day after the Zoo’s long-time Director and CEO Pat Simmons.
On the morning of her death, Leia underwent a planned medical procedure to address a foot injury. Medical staff expected Leia to make a full recovery before she experienced acute aspiration following the procedure. Aspiration is a recognized complication that can sometimes occur with the use of anesthesia in both humans and animals, and is generally considered the number one complication with giraffe surgical procedures. A necropsy, or animal autopsy, was performed on Leia and results confirmed aspiration as the official cause of death.
Zoo team members, particularly the caretakers, the Zoo’s medical staff, entertainment staff and volunteers who formed a special bond with Leia over the years are heartbroken. The Zoo respectfully requests privacy and compassion for affected staff as they continue to mourn.
“We are so grateful to the community and our loyal supporters for the outpouring of love during this incredibly challenging time,” says Deputy Director Diane Villa. “Your warmth and kind words are a comfort to us all as we navigate loss and begin our journey toward healing.”
